The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has initiated a thorough investigation into the heartbreaking suicide of a 45-year-old British national, identified only as Antonio, who tragically took his own life at the Country Lodge Hotel in Hill Station, Freetown.

During the routine police press briefing at the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters on George Street, Freetown, on Wednesday, May 7th, 2024, Detective Fritzlnyn Joshua Moosa, Head of Operations at CID, disclosed the distressing details surrounding the incident.

According to Detective Moosa, Antonio was residing at the Country Lodge Hotel with his wife, Natasha, and mother-in-law, Sonia. Tragically, an argument erupted between Antonio and his wife on the fateful day, stemming from undisclosed issues related to their marital relationship.

Recounting the events leading up to the tragedy, Detective Moosa revealed that Antonio, his wife, and mother-in-law had attended a party organized by a friend named Jamil on Saturday, May 4th, 2024. Following the party, Jamil advised Antonio to return to his apartment to avoid further conflict. Heeded the advice, Antonio left the gathering and retired to his quarters.

Later that evening, Natasha received a heart-wrenching text message from Antonio, bidding her farewell and urging her to return to their shared accommodation at the Country Lodge Hotel. Distressed, Natasha rushed back to the hotel, only to discover the devastating scene upon her arrival.

As Natasha attempted to gain entry into Antonio’s apartment, a gunshot rang out, causing panic throughout the hotel. Hotel management swiftly intervened, utilizing the back entrance to access the apartment, where they discovered Antonio lifeless, with a pistol by his side and surrounded by blood.

Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to the hospital, Antonio was pronounced dead upon arrival. A subsequent postmortem examination confirmed gunshot wounds as the cause of death, leaving investigators grappling with the aftermath of the tragic event.

A subsequent search of Antonio’s room uncovered a cache of concerning items, including a pistol, 40 live rounds of ammunition, three empty shells, one bullet, iPhone 11, and iPhone 13, and half a bottle of Johnny Walker whiskey, Johnny Walker. The pistol has since been sent for forensic examination to ascertain its origin and legality.

Amidst the profound grief and bewilderment surrounding Antonio’s untimely demise, the investigation is ongoing, with statements obtained from the management of Country Lodge Hotel as authorities work tirelessly to unravel the circumstances leading to this tragic loss of life.